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PM Modi Honoured with Ghana’s Top Award, the 'Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana'
timesnownews | July 3, 2025 9:49 AM CST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured on Thursday with the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the highest civilian award bestowed by the Ghanaian government on distinguished foreign leaders. The accolade was formally conferred during a state banquet hosted by President John Dramani Mahama at Jubilee House, marking the beginning of Modi’s two-day state visit.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the appointment at a press briefing on Monday. He described the award as a testament to the deep-rooted relationship between Ghana and India, underscoring shared democratic values and a robust development partnership. “This is the highest honour our country bestows on distinguished foreign dignitaries,” Ablakwa stated. “Only a few world leaders have received it, and we are proud to include Prime Minister Modi in this illustrious group.”

Award Symbolises Exceptional Contributions to Ghana’s Development


The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana is reserved for foreign heads of state who have made outstanding contributions to Ghana’s growth and development trajectory. Ablakwa emphasised that this award reflects Modi’s and India’s “unwavering friendship and support” for Ghana. He highlighted India's significant contributions, including more than US$450 million in development financing over recent years. Key Indian-backed projects cited include:
  1. Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT
  2. Komenda Sugar Factory
  3. Elmina Fish Processing Plant
  4. Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line
India has further supported Ghana’s Foreign Service Institute and invested extensively in rural electrification, agriculture, and educational infrastructure. These initiatives have played a vital role in elevating Ghana’s economic and technological development.
Ablakwa noted that India and Ghana share a commitment to democracy—the former being the world’s largest democracy and the latter a model of democratic governance in Africa. “Our nations are bound by history, people-to-people ties, and a common vision for inclusive development,” he said, positioning the evening’s honour as symbolic of those shared values. The award not only acknowledges bilateral cooperation but also affirms mutual respect rooted in democratic ideals and shared aspirations.


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